Otsu SA

Did the aroma of Omi beef ever lead you to a highway rest stop? Otsu Service Area, Japan’s first service area, opened in 1963. It’s located on the Meishin Expressway. Otsu SA has evolved significantly since its humble beginnings. It celebrated its 50th anniversary in April 2013 with a grand renewal. The renovated outbound area, Pavalier Biwako Otsu, is a multi-level commercial hub. Here, you can savor the renowned Omi beef at Grill Meat. This restaurant also features local specialties. Try the Omi beef gyudon bowl or the Saga Prefecture Mitsuse chicken dumpling bowl. The food court offers diverse culinary experiences. You can indulge in Shiga’s famous sweets and confections, as well as treats from Kyoto, Nagoya, and Ise. There are fourteen shops including Certiwan Ice Cream and Oka’s Freshly Milked Treasure Ranch. Even a McDonald’s awaits those seeking familiar comforts. Otsu SA offers more than just food. Ascend to the third-floor observation deck for panoramic views of Lake Biwa, Mount Hiei, and the Hirayama mountain range. The restrooms have also been upgraded. The women’s restroom features a spacious private room with a vanity area, providing a welcome respite from the road. The inbound side at Otsu SA also boasts culinary delights and souvenirs. Enjoy a lakeside dining experience overlooking Lake Biwa. Coffee aficionados can appreciate the authentic espresso and cappuccino at LAKESIDE COFFEE, where skilled baristas create latte art. The souvenir shop offers a wide array of products from Kobe, Shiga, Osaka, and Kyoto. You’ll find regional specialties from established Japanese confectionery shops such as Tawaraya Yoshitomi and Sasaya Iori. Don’t miss the popular Kyoto souvenir, yatsuhashi, from Izutsu Yatsuhashi Honpo, pickled vegetables from Kyotsukemono Nishiri, and the ever-popular 551 Horai. So, next time you’re traveling the Meishin Expressway, remember Otsu Service Area. It’s more than just a rest stop. It’s a destination.